AMHERST, NY — Uni-SelectUSA is donating $150,000 to assist Alfred (NY) State College in developing an automotive parts technology program.

The automotive parts technology program will be for a two-year associate degree in applied science (AAS) program. The donated funds will be used to give $4,000 scholarships for qualified students and start up of the program.

Uni-SelectUSA is also partnering with Alfred State by opening of one of its Fred Roberts Auto Parts stores on campus to provide students with the opportunity to gain experience working with the daily operations. This facility is used to supply parts to the 260 students in the automotive programs that conduct live work in the laboratories.

“Every year, the auto aftermarket spends millions of dollars on training and education,” said Uni-SelectUSA Executive Vice President James Buzzard. “Alfred State’s continued commitment to excellence and its desire to expand the program make this partnership possible. It also provides our industry and company with employees who will have the necessary technical and business skills.”

For more than 40 years, Alfred State has provided students with the kinds of hands-on, technologically sound educational programs needed by the auto aftermarket industry. The school’s expanding automotive trades department offers associate degree programs in automotive service, heavy equipment/truck & diesel and auto body repair. Each of these programs is ASE Master Certified by NATEF. Alfred State also has an associate’s degree in motor sports technology at its main campus in Alfred, NY.

“This new program is a great example of how industry and education can work together in a true partnership,” said Craig Clark, dean of the School of Applied Technology at Alfred State. “Through this initiative, we can teach our students to not only be great technicians, but also great managers who possess the communication and business skills necessary to succeed.”